UGO: Festival of Adventure and Activity

Earn yourself an “open air degree” in Herefordshire…and play tag rugby with Ieuan Evans…

Full details of the two-day outdoor-activity spectacular in Herefordshire have just been unveiled.

Taking place at Eastnor Castle over the May Bank Holiday weekend of Sunday, May 4, and Monday, May 5, The University of the Great Outdoors is being heralded as the only regional event focusing exclusively on outdoor activities, where visitors can pay a one-off entrance fee, which will then enable them to circulate within the grounds, and enjoy taster sessions in a choice of 29 different activities.

As such, it’s the opportunity in The Midlands this year for anyone to come and “have a go” at a new and exciting outdoor activity. The action-packed sessions available include grass sledging, canoeing and kayaking, off-road driving with Land Rover, pony trekking, archery and zip-lining along the longest line in the UK over Eastnor lake.

The event also offers visitors to the county the opportunity to camp-out under the stars and learn the true art of bushcraft. And for anyone not feeling quite so energetic, there will be some more-leisurely activities available during the two days – including story telling, and golfing skills – or simply a chance to spectate.

Exhibitors and leisure equipment suppliers will also be on hand throughout the event to provide expert advice, and essential kit, to anyone interested in taking the taster sessions on to the next level.

Former Welsh rugby player Ieuan Evans will be the “face” of this year’s UGO event. The record-breaking rugby player and current-day broadcaster will be at Eastnor Castle on both days, encouraging all-comers to try their hand at some different outdoor activities…especially the “Tag-rugby”!

The University of the Great Outdoors will be open to participants from 10am to 5pm on both Sunday and Monday.

Prices for one day are £8 (adult), £7 (concessions), £5 (child) and £21 (family – two adults, three children). For two days, the prices are: £12, £10.50, £7.50 and £31.50. “Spectators” entry fees, meanwhile, are just £4, £3, £2 and £10. All admission fees include entry into the Castle.

Full details are now featured on the website www.visitherefordshire.co.uk, as well as in a free University of the Great Outdoors Programme, which is available by telephoning 01432 260621.